Republic of Ireland boss Don Givens last night paid tribute to Wolves midfielder Stephen Gleeson for his explosive start on the under-21 international stage.

Gleeson grabbed a double as the Republic's youngsters secured a creditable draw with Germany in a friendly encounter in Furth.

The 18-year-old Dubliner made his senior international debut in the United States tour in May but his impact in his first under-21 game was immense.

"It was a terrific start for the kid," admitted Givens. "The second goal in particular was magnificent. Billy Clarke's cross was brilliant but Eddie Nolan had started the move in his own half then got on the end of the cross to set up Stephen.

"There was an awful lot of good stuff from that game. Stephen has certainly played his part and I'm sure he'll be an asset."

Givens' side face a tough group in the Uefa Championships qualifying campaign. They host Portugal in their opening fixture in Cork on September 7th then meet England in October. Bulgaria and Montenegro are also in the same group.

"It's a good run-out for us ahead of the Portugal game. We've given debuts to Stephen Gleeson, Eddie Nolan, Michael Collins and Shane McFaul so that's another plus," said Givens.

"The fact that it's just two weeks to the next one will help. We hadn't played since the Holland game in April so this will still be fresh in their minds when we meet Portugal.

"It was a good quality test and we came through it. We had five good chances against Germany, few teams will do that so we have to be happy. I was disappointed for the boys not to get the win they deserved because they worked so hard for it."